Backstone Bank Depots

Industrial heritage doesn't come much more atmospheric than these abandoned railway depots scattered across the Durham countryside. The Backstone Bank Depots served the old Consett Iron Company's railway network, shifting coal and iron ore through this heavily industrialised corner of County Durham until the steelworks closed in 1980.

What remains today are weathered stone buildings and earthwork embankments that railway enthusiasts and local history buffs will find properly fascinating. The structures tell the story of when this area hummed with heavy industry - a far cry from the peaceful farmland you'll find now. Some of the stonework is remarkably well preserved, though nature's slowly reclaiming much of the site.

Families with older children who don't mind a bit of scrambling will enjoy exploring, but it's not suitable for pushchairs and younger kids might find it a touch dull after twenty minutes. The site's completely free to wander around, though there's no formal interpretation - you'll need to bring your imagination.

If you're staying at one of the holiday parks around Consett like Kingfisher or Manor Park, this makes a decent hour's diversion for a morning walk. Best combined with a visit to nearby Consett itself, where the old steelworks site has been transformed into parkland. Worth the detour if you're into industrial archaeology, but casual visitors might find it a bit niche.